SCE

Framework Name: Software Capability Evaluation

Published Date: Version 3.0, April 1996

Description: SCE is a method for evaluating the software process of an organization to gain insight into its process capability. This version of the SCE Method is based on the Capability Maturity Model defined in Capability Maturity Model for Software, Version 1.1. It is compliant with the CMM Appraisal Framework (CAF). SCEs are designed to be used in source selection to help select a qualified contractor and in contract monitoring to identify risks, measure performance for incentive fees, and baseline organizational performance similar to a CBA IPI.

The SCE team conducts a document review and extensive interviews. The observed strengths and weaknesses are formally documented and then used to determine risk for a particular development. An SEI SW-CMM Level is not determined by the SCE.

The SCE provides a method for an organization to evaluate a potential or existing supplier; other appraisal methods are used for internal assessments. These internal assessment methods include:

• CMM-Based Appraisal for Internal Process Improvement (CBA IPI) : Helps an organization determine its SEI maturity level and identify findings pursuant to individual Key Process Areas (KPAs). A typical CBA IPI requires two to three weeks to complete.
• CMM Evaluations: A Consortium-proprietary informal evaluation that can help determine what process improvement activities are necessary before a formal CBA IPI, or Software Capability Evaluation (SCE). A CMM Evaluation includes a review of organizational policies, procedures, and guidelines for compliance with the SW-CMM. A CMM Evaluation provides much of the same information as a CBA IPI at a fraction of the cost. A typical CMM Evaluation requires just three days to complete.
• The SCE, CBA IPI, and CMM Evaluations are all CMM specific. They are all equivalent assessment methods associated with the CMMI. SCAMPI version 1.1 combines the SCE and CBA IPI into a single CMMI-based assessment method that can be used for source selection, contract monitoring, and internal process improvement. Assessment methods also exist for the system engineering models SE-CMM and EIA/IS 731.

Source of Framework:

• Soft copy of the Software Capability Evaluation Version 3.0 Method Description is available in either Postscript or PDF formats directly from the SEI.
• Hard copies of the SCE Method Description may be obtained from the National Technical Information Service, Technical Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, Springfield, VA 22161-2103.
• Hard copies of the SCE Method Description may be obtained from the Defense Technical Information Center.

Related Links:

• STSC's Software Capability Evaluation Service describes STSC's services for supporting organization interested in performing an SCE.

Related Consortium Products (available to Consortium members and affiliates only):

• CBA-IPI: The CBA-IPI helps an organization determine its SEI maturity level and identify findings pursuant to individual Key Process Areas (KPAs). An SEI-authorized lead assessor and assistant conduct CBA IPI training, pre-assessment documentation review, and on-site interviews with appropriate project and organizational personnel to determine the maturity level of an organization.
• CMM Evaluations: A CMM Evaluation can help determine what process improvement activities are necessary before a formal CBA IPI, or Software Capability Evaluation (SCE), and is thus an essential tool for process improvement planning. A CMM Evaluation includes a review of organizational policies, procedures, and guidelines for compliance with the SEI CMM. Specific guidance is provided in defining alternative process definition and modeling techniques. A baseline of the current software processes is developed based on the documentation reviews and associated interviews with appropriate project personnel. This baseline then provides a basis for planning further process improvement activities.